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Short answer
Bags suit jobs under about 1 cubic yard (45 bags of 80 lb mix, about 3,600 lb). Above that, ready-mix is usually easier and gives a more even pour. Compare totals with a local quote.
1. Quick comparison
| Premix bags | Ready-mix truck | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Post holes, small pads, repairs | Slabs, driveways, footings, larger pours |
| Volume | Under about 1 yd³ | Above about 1 yd³ |
| Effort | Lift and mix every bag | Delivered mixed, you place and finish |
| Consistency | Varies batch to batch | More even across the pour |
| Cost | Check your local bag price | Check price per yd³ and any short-load fee |
2. What a cubic yard means in bags
| Cubic yards | 80 lb bags | Dry weight (lb) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | 23 | 1,840 |
| 1 | 45 | 3,600 |
| 2 | 90 | 7,200 |
| 3 | 135 | 10,800 |
| 5 | 225 | 18,000 |
| 10 | 450 | 36,000 |
3. Working out the cost
Bag cost = bags × price per bag. Truck cost = cubic yards × price per yard, plus any delivery or short-load charge. The Concrete Calculator does both once you enter your local prices.
4. Time pressure
Concrete starts to set, so a large pour mixed by hand in batches can leave cold joints. A truck delivers the whole volume at once.
5. Ask your supplier
- Minimum load and short-load charges
- Delivery fees and time allowed on site
- Strength and any air entrainment for freeze-thaw climates
6. Frequently asked questions
When should I use ready-mix instead of bags?expand_more
Above about 1 cubic yard, or when you need an even pour.
How many bags is one cubic yard?expand_more
About 45 of 80 lb.
What is a short-load charge?expand_more
A fee some suppliers add for small deliveries. Ask your supplier.
Can I mix a slab by hand?expand_more
Possible for small slabs, but batches can vary and cold joints are a risk.